Even though Derby County remain without a win since the opening day of the season in the league, the 1-1 draw against Cardiff City last time out saw some signs of positivity.

Boss Phillip Cocu was always going to need time to implement his ideas after what was a turbulent summer for the Rams.

They lost several key players from the previous campaign and some of the significant business done by the east Midlands outfit didn't come until near the end of the window.

So, initial problems won't be a huge concern, although they clearly need to start picking up points sooner rather than later.

And, whilst they couldn't take all three against Cardiff on Friday, there were some aspects of the game that will have encouraged the Dutch coach - particularly the midfield three.

Krystian Bielik and Tom Huddlestone were sitting, with the returning Duane Holmes given more license to get forward as part of the three.

The defensive duo gave the Rams a real solid base to build from, with Huddlestone's technical ability well-known and he was once again very assured and composed in possession as the hosts tried to dominate play.

However, the former Spurs man does struggle in terms of covering the ground but his lack of mobility was covered by his partners in the middle of the park.

Bielik's defensive instincts meant Cardiff struggled to get at the Rams back four and the big-money signing is also capable on the ball too.

That platform allowed Derby to push forward and it was something that Holmes took advantage of.

As the home team, Cocu will have wanted his side to take the initiative, something they haven't always done in the past, but Holmes ensured they were always on the front foot and more importantly had a real balance in the way they played.

His speed and energy provided the Rams with an attacking threat from the middle and his desire to get into the box and to commit players was a major positive.

Of course, that also helped those in the final third, who would get more space because Cardiff had another problem to deal with.

There are still issues for Cocu to address at Pride Park and it was by no means the perfect performance on Friday, with the Bluebirds probably good value for a draw.

Yet, there was signs of progress from Derby and Holmes' display in midfield suggests that the new boss has finally found the right formula in a crucial area as he looks to get his side firing.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.